Detroit Tigers Rumors: Justin Wilson Linked With Cubs

Detroit Tigers rumors are once again in the news. Despite the Winter Meetings having come and gone, Tigers rumors are still prominent. Per the latest report, Justin Wilson has been linked with the Cubs.

Detroit Tigers rumors are here once again. The calendar year may be winding down, but Tigers rumors are still going strong.

According to the latest tweet from veteran insider Jon Morosi, Detroit reliever Justin Wilson is being linked with the Chicago Cubs. The Fox Sports reporter tweeted, “#Cubs have been in contact with #Tigers on a possible Justin Wilson trade, source says; unclear if there is current momentum. @MLB.”

Given Wilson’s upside and ability, it certainly isn’t a surprise that teams are interested in the reliever.

In his first season with the Tigers, the left-hander logged 58.2 innings pitched. Along with Shane Greene, he paced Detroit’s bullpen with a 1.0 WAR.

What’s more, the one-time Yankee struck out 9.97 batters per nine frames while turning in a swinging strike percentage of 12.5.

His 4.14 ERA wasn’t anything to write home about. However, a closer look at the reliever’s numbers suggest he was better than his ERA would indicate.

More from Detroit Tigers News

• Detroit Tigers: Victor Reyes finding ways to get the job done
• The Detroit Tigers must cut their losses and release Jonathan Schoop
• Detroit Tigers: Garrett Hill’s new role and changed delivery are excellent
• Detroit Tigers: Joe Jiménez has rebounded in 2022
• Detroit Tigers: Is it finally time to move the fences in at Comerica Park?

Wilson was a bit unlucky with a .340 BABIP. He also posted excellent numbers in other run-prevention metrics, including a 3.18 FIP, a 3.24 xFIP and a 3.02 SIERA. The 29-year-old is controllable through 2019, making him one of Detroit’s more attractive trade chips.

MLBTradeRumors projects a $2.7 million salary for the reliever for next season.

Given the reliever’s excellent numbers, controllability and reasonable salary, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the Tigers receive a significant return for the southpaw.

Of course, it remains to be seen if the team will deal Wilson, but he could bring back some intriguing talent.

Next: Why A Potential Justin Wilson Trade Return Should Be Significant

Chicago doesn’t exactly have a definite need for a reliever thanks to a bullpen set to be led by Wade Davis, Hector Rondon, Pedro Strop and Carl Edwards Jr. However, teams are always on the lookout for depth.